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Hydrophile-Lipophile Balance Scale

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Hydrophile-Lipophile Balance (HLB) Scale

Definition of Hydrophile-Lipophile Balance Scale The HLB scale is a numerical system that indicates the balance between the hydrophilic and lipophilic portions of a surfactant molecule. Scale Range: 0 (completely lipophilic) to 20 (completely hydrophilic). Calculation of Hydrophile-Lipophile Balance Scale For nonionic surfactants: $\text{HLB} = 20 \times \frac{M_{\text{hydrophilic}}}{M_{\text{total}}}$ where: is the molecular mass of the … Read more

Adsorption at Solid Interfaces

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Adsorption at Solid Interfaces

Definition of Adsorption at Solid Interfaces Adsorptions at solid interfaces involves the accumulation of molecules from a liquid or gas onto a solid surface. Types of Adsorption: Physical Adsorption (Physisorption) Forces: Weak van der Waals forces; reversible. Characteristics: Occurs at low temperatures; decreases with heat. Forms multilayers as molecules are loosely held. Example: Adsorption of … Read more

Detergency

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Detergency

Definition of Detergency Detergency is the process by which surfactants clean surfaces by removing dirt, oils, and other contaminants. Mechanism Wetting: Surfactants lower surface tension, allowing cleaning solutions to spread. Emulsification: Oils and greases are emulsified and suspended. Dispersion: Particulate soils are dispersed and prevented from re-deposition. Factors Influencing Detergency Surfactant Concentration: Must be above … Read more

Solubilization

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Solubilization

Definition of Solubilization Solubilization is the process of dissolving a solute into a solvent with the aid of surfactants, forming a thermodynamically stable isotropic solution. Mechanism Micellar Solubilization: Incorporation of hydrophobic solute molecules into the hydrophobic core of micelles. Phase Behavior: Surfactants above the CMC facilitate solubilization. Factors Affecting Solubilization Surfactant Structure: Tail length and … Read more

Surfactants

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Surfactants

Definition of Surfactants Surfactants are compounds that reduce surface and interfacial tensions by concentrating at the interface due to their amphiphilic nature. Classification of Surfactant Anionic Surfactants Charge: Negative in water. Functional Groups: Sulfate, sulfonate, or carboxylate. Example: Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) – used in shampoos, toothpaste, detergents. Characteristics: High detergency and foaming; can be … Read more

Biomolecules Introduction

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Introduction of Biomolecules

Biomolecules are organic molecules produced by living organisms, essential for the structure, function, and regulation of cells, tissues, and organs. They sustain biological processes and can be classified into four major categories: carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Carbohydrates in Biomolecules Structure: Composed of carbon (C), hydrogen (H), and oxygen (O) in a 1:2:1 Includes … Read more

Amphetamine

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Amphetamine

Amphetamine Definition Amphetamine is a powerful central nervous system stimulant that affects chemicals in the brain and nerves contributing to hyperactivity and impulse control. It is commonly used in the treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy, under brand names like Adderall and Dexedrine. Structure: Chemical Formula: C₉H₁₃N Molecular Structure: Contains a benzene ring … Read more

Ethylenediamine

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Ethylenediamine Definition Ethylenediamine is a bifunctional amine consisting of two amino groups (-NH₂) attached to a two-carbon ethylene chain. It serves as a chelating agent, corrosion inhibitor, and precursor to many industrial chemicals, such as ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). Structure: Chemical Formula: C₂H₈N₂ Molecular Structure: Consists of a two-carbon chain with an amino group (-NH₂) attached … Read more

Ethanolamine

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Ethanolamine

Ethanolamine Definition Ethanolamine is a colorless, viscous liquid used as a building block in the production of detergents, emulsifiers, pharmaceuticals, and chemical intermediates. It acts as a weak base and is commonly found in cosmetic formulations, gas treatment, and corrosion inhibitors. Structure: Chemical Formula: C₂H₇NO Molecular Structure: Consists of a two-carbon chain with a hydroxyl … Read more

Qualitative test of Aliphatic amines

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Qualitative test of Aliphatic amines

Qualitative test of Aliphatic amines can be distinguished as primary, secondary, or tertiary through various qualitative tests based on their solubility and reactivity. Below are the key tests used to identify the Qualitative test of Aliphatic amines and differentiate between these types of amines: Solubility Test Primary and Secondary Amines: Generally soluble in water and … Read more